What Is IVDD and Why Prevention Matters
Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) is a condition that affects the discs between a dog’s vertebrae, causing pain, weakness, or even paralysis. While some breeds are more prone to it, IVDD can affect any dog, especially as they age or gain weight. The good news is that in many cases, it can be prevented or delayed with the right care and lifestyle choices.
If you’ve ever wondered “Can I actually prevent IVDD in my dog?” - the answer is yes, at least to a large extent. Preventing IVDD is all about reducing strain on your dog’s spine: managing weight, avoiding jumping, supporting muscle strength, and making smart choices in daily routines. These small steps add up and can make a real difference in keeping your dog mobile and pain-free for years.
Even if your dog has already been diagnosed with IVDD, there’s still a lot you can do. With the right support, many dogs continue to live full and happy lives. You can read more in our Life with IVDD guide and explore the Furria small dog wheelchair, designed to help dogs regain independence and enjoy their walks again.
Which Breeds Are Prone to IVDD?
IVDD is most common in breeds with long backs and short legs - dogs that look adorable but have a spine under constant pressure. The highest-risk group includes Dachshunds, Corgis, Shih Tzus, Pekingese, and French Bulldogs. These breeds are genetically predisposed to developing disc problems, often much earlier in life than other dogs.
Age also plays a role. As dogs grow older, their spinal discs naturally lose flexibility, making them more likely to slip or rupture. Excess weight adds extra strain on the back, and frequent jumping from furniture or cars can increase the risk even further.
If your dog belongs to one of these breeds, prevention should start early - from puppyhood, if possible. Learning to recognise the early warning signs of IVDD is just as important as preventing it. You can find a full breakdown of symptoms and what to watch for in our Symptoms of IVDD in Dogs guide.
What Can I Do to Prevent IVDD in My Dog?
Preventing IVDD starts with reducing strain on your dog’s spine and keeping their body strong and balanced. The most effective step is maintaining a healthy weight - extra kilos mean extra pressure on the back. A lean, fit dog is far less likely to develop spinal issues than one who’s even slightly overweight.
Avoid activities that involve jumping or sudden twisting, such as leaping off furniture or running up and down stairs. Instead, use ramps or steps to help your dog move safely between surfaces. When picking up your dog, always support both the chest and the back end to keep the spine aligned.
Gentle, regular exercise helps keep muscles strong and flexible, giving the spine better support. Even short daily walks or controlled swimming can make a difference. Combine that with a supportive harness instead of a collar to avoid neck strain, and your dog’s back will thank you later.
Preventing IVDD isn’t about one big change - it’s about small, consistent habits that protect your dog’s spine over time.
Can Exercise Prevent IVDD?
Yes - the right kind of exercise can help prevent IVDD by keeping your dog’s muscles strong and supporting the spine. A well-conditioned body helps reduce pressure on the intervertebral discs and improves balance, flexibility, and posture.
The key is low-impact activity. Gentle, regular walks, controlled play on flat ground, and short swimming sessions are all excellent ways to build core strength without stressing the back. Avoid intense running, jumping, or rough play, as these movements can do more harm than good, especially for breeds at risk.
If you’d like to see what safe, spine-friendly exercises look like, take a look at our Rehabilitation after IVDD guide. Many of the exercises used in recovery are also ideal for prevention when done in moderation. Consistent, gentle movement is one of the most effective ways to keep your dog’s back healthy throughout life.
How Can I Protect My Dog’s Spine Every Day?
Protecting your dog’s spine is mostly about creating safe daily habits. Start with the basics: avoid letting your dog jump on or off furniture, and use ramps or small steps instead. When lifting your dog, always support both the chest and hindquarters to keep the spine straight and stable.
Choose a supportive harness rather than a collar, as collars can strain the neck and upper spine. Make sure your dog’s bed is firm yet cushioned, allowing their back to rest evenly. Slippery floors can also be risky, so add rugs or mats to help your dog move without slipping.
Small, thoughtful changes in your home and routine make a big difference over time. For more ongoing advice on maintaining spinal health and comfort, explore our guide on Long-term care and living with IVDD.
What Foods Help Prevent IVDD?
Diet plays a key role in keeping your dog’s spine healthy and reducing the risk of IVDD. The most important thing is maintaining a healthy body weight, as extra fat puts unnecessary strain on the back. Feed your dog a balanced diet rich in lean protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals.
Nutrients that support spinal and joint health include Omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, and chondroitin. These help reduce inflammation, protect cartilage, and keep discs more flexible. Some owners also add small amounts of bone broth or fish oil to meals for extra joint support, but it’s always best to consult your vet before starting any supplement.
While no diet can completely prevent IVDD, good nutrition strengthens the body and improves recovery if it ever happens. To learn more about how these supplements are used during recovery, read our Conservative treatment for IVDD guide.
When Should I Take My Dog to the Vet for Back Issues?
You should take your dog to the vet as soon as you notice any signs of back pain or movement problems. Early detection is key - the sooner IVDD or another spinal issue is diagnosed, the better the chances of recovery.
Watch out for warning signs such as stiffness, reluctance to jump or climb stairs, yelping when touched, dragging of the back legs, or sudden loss of balance. Even mild symptoms can quickly progress, so it’s always safer to get your dog checked.
Your vet may recommend a physical and neurological exam, and in some cases, imaging tests like an X-ray or MRI. These help determine whether the spine or discs are affected. For a detailed look at how the process works, read our Diagnosis and tests for IVDD guide.
Can IVDD Happen Even If I’m Careful?
Yes, IVDD can still happen even if you do everything right. Some dogs are genetically predisposed to the condition, and no amount of prevention can completely remove that risk. Ageing also plays a role - over time, spinal discs naturally lose flexibility and become more vulnerable to injury.
What you can control is how early you catch the signs and how quickly you act. Preventive care often means that if IVDD does develop, it will be milder and easier to manage. Regular check-ups, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding physical strain all make a difference.
If your dog already struggles to walk, our Furria small dog wheelchair can make a life-changing difference. Visit our shop for mobility aids for full support.
FAQ
Can you really prevent IVDD in dogs?
You can significantly reduce the risk, but it’s not always possible to prevent IVDD completely. Genetics, age, and body structure play a big role. What you can do is keep your dog at a healthy weight, avoid jumping, and strengthen their back muscles through gentle, regular exercise.
What age do dogs usually get IVDD?
IVDD can appear at almost any age, but it’s most common between 4 and 8 years old, especially in breeds like Dachshunds and Corgis. However, even younger dogs can develop symptoms if they are genetically predisposed or frequently strain their back.
Do ramps really help prevent IVDD?
Yes. Ramps are one of the simplest and most effective ways to reduce spinal stress. They prevent your dog from jumping on and off furniture, which can strain or damage the intervertebral discs over time.
Can losing weight help prevent IVDD?
Absolutely. Extra weight puts pressure on the spine and discs, making injury more likely. Keeping your dog lean is one of the best ways to prevent IVDD and other mobility problems.
How do you keep a Dachshund from getting IVDD?
Start prevention early. Avoid stairs, stop your Dachshund from jumping off furniture, and use ramps whenever possible. Feed a balanced diet, keep them slim, and encourage safe exercise like short walks or swimming. These simple habits go a long way towards protecting their back.
Conclusion
Preventing IVDD is all about small, consistent habits that protect your dog’s spine over time. While you can’t control genetics, you can control lifestyle — keeping your dog lean, active, and safe from strain makes a lasting difference. Early awareness and prevention are the best ways to give your dog a long, comfortable, and mobile life.
We focus on helping owners support dogs with mobility and comfort issues.
This article is for informational purposes and should not replace professional veterinary care.
